Formoterol
Formoterol is a long-acting beta2-adrenergic receptor agonist (LABA). It works by relaxing the smooth muscles of the airways to improve airflow. It is used as long-term maintenance therapy and should not be used as a rescue medicine for acute asthma attacks. In asthma patients, it should always be used in combination with an inhaled corticosteroid.
Dosage by Body Weight
Administered via inhalation only. Standard dose for adults with COPD is 12 mcg inhaled every 12 hours, or 20 mcg via nebulizer twice daily. For asthma in adults and children 5 years and older, standard dose is 12 mcg inhaled every 12 hours. Do not exceed 24 mcg in 24 hours.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Not recommended
- Frequency
- N/A
- Tracking Notes
- Safety and effectiveness in infants have not been established.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- Not recommended
- Frequency
- N/A
- Tracking Notes
- Safety and effectiveness in infants have not been established.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- Not recommended
- Frequency
- N/A
- Tracking Notes
- Safety and effectiveness in toddlers have not been established.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- Not recommended
- Frequency
- N/A
- Tracking Notes
- Safety and effectiveness in young children under 5 years have not been established.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 12 mcg (if child is 5+ years)
- Frequency
- Every 12 hours
- Tracking Notes
- Only for children 5 years of age and older who can properly use the inhaler device. Must be used with an inhaled corticosteroid.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Not recommended | N/A | Safety and effectiveness in infants have not been established. |
| 5-7 kg | Not recommended | N/A | Safety and effectiveness in infants have not been established. |
| 8-10 kg | Not recommended | N/A | Safety and effectiveness in toddlers have not been established. |
| 11-15 kg | Not recommended | N/A | Safety and effectiveness in young children under 5 years have not been established. |
| 16-20 kg | 12 mcg (if child is 5+ years) | Every 12 hours | Only for children 5 years of age and older who can properly use the inhaler device. Must be used with an inhaled corticosteroid. |
Formulation
Purpose
A long-acting bronchodilator (LABA) used for the long-term maintenance treatment of asthma and to prevent bronchospasm in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including chronic bronchitis and emphysema.
Generic Name
Formoterol fumarateBranded Drug Names
Formoterol is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.